Thermo Forma 8695 Double-Door Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer

Brand : Thermo

Product Code : SKU 2545G FREEZER

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Shipping

All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse

Thermo Forma 8695 Double-Door Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer

In busy research laboratories, ultra-low freezers are rarely accessed by just one person. Multiple investigators, technicians, and laboratory staff often retrieve samples throughout the day, making both storage capacity and workflow equally important. The Thermo Forma 8695 Double-Door Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer was designed with this environment in mind, combining dependable -86°C performance with a unique double-door configuration that improves accessibility while helping protect valuable biological collections.

With 23 cubic feet (651 liters) of storage capacity and room for approximately 400 standard 2-inch cryoboxes, the Forma 8695 is an excellent choice for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, public health laboratories, and biobanks managing large biological sample collections. Its double exterior doors allow researchers to access one side of the freezer while the opposite side remains closed, reducing cold air loss and helping maintain more stable storage temperatures during routine sample retrieval.

Many laboratories incorporate a freezer like the Forma 8695 into a complete cold storage workflow alongside laboratory refrigerators for refrigerated media and reagents, laboratory freezers for routine frozen storage, cryogenic storage systems for liquid nitrogen preservation, and biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation.

Thermo Forma 8695 Key Features

23 cu. ft. (651 L) storage capacity
Holds approximately 400 standard 2-inch cryoboxes
Double exterior door configuration
Four insulated interior compartment doors
Adjustable temperature range from -50°C to -86°C
Industrial cascade refrigeration system
Microprocessor temperature controller
Audible and visual alarm system
Rechargeable battery backup for alarms and controller
Heavy-gauge powder-coated steel cabinet
Lockable doors
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Thermo Forma 8695 Overview

The Forma 8695 was engineered for laboratories where frequent sample access is part of the daily workflow. Its defining feature is the double exterior door design, which allows users to retrieve materials from one side of the cabinet while leaving the other side sealed. By limiting the amount of cold air that escapes during routine access, the freezer helps maintain more consistent storage temperatures while improving recovery after door openings.

Inside the cabinet, four insulated compartment doors provide an additional layer of thermal protection by exposing only a portion of the freezer during sample retrieval. Combined with Thermo's proven cascade refrigeration system and heavy-duty cabinet construction, the Forma 8695 delivers dependable ultra-low temperature performance for demanding laboratory environments.

Common Applications

The Thermo Forma 8695 is commonly used for storing stem cells, cell lines, DNA and RNA libraries, PBMCs, plasma and serum, tissue specimens, vaccines, protein samples, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, clinical trial materials, long-term biological collections, and more.

Its dual-door configuration makes it especially valuable for laboratories where multiple users routinely access stored materials throughout the day.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The Forma 8695 is well suited for:

Biotechnology companies
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
Academic research institutions
Hospitals
Clinical laboratories
Public health laboratories
Government research facilities
Biobanks
Clinical research organizations

Laboratories managing high-volume biological collections will appreciate the freezer's combination of storage capacity, dependable refrigeration, and workflow-friendly design.

Double-Door Design & Sample Protection

The double-door configuration is one of the Forma 8695's greatest advantages. Rather than opening the full width of the cabinet, researchers can access only the section containing the samples they need. This helps reduce cold air loss, minimizes thermal disturbance to archived materials, and supports faster temperature recovery after routine access.

Many laboratories also organize one side of the freezer for frequently accessed working collections while reserving the opposite compartment for long-term archived samples. This simple organizational strategy can improve efficiency while helping protect valuable specimens from unnecessary temperature fluctuations.

Typical Stored Materials

The Thermo Forma 8695 is commonly used to preserve stem cells, cell lines, PBMCs, DNA and RNA libraries, plasma, serum, tissue specimens, vaccines, protein samples, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, and other biological collections requiring storage down to -86°C.

Applications requiring temperatures approaching -196°C are generally better suited for dedicated cryogenic storage systems utilizing liquid nitrogen.

Thermo Forma 8695 Key Specifications

Capacity

23 cu. ft. (651 L)

Cryobox Capacity

Approximately 400 standard 2-inch cryoboxes

Temperature Range

Adjustable from -50°C to -86°C

Door Configuration

Double exterior doors
Four insulated interior doors

Refrigeration System

Industrial cascade refrigeration
Dual-compressor design

Monitoring & Controls

Microprocessor controller
Digital temperature display
Audible and visual alarms
Rechargeable battery backup

Construction

Heavy-gauge powder-coated steel cabinet
Lockable doors

Electrical Requirements

230V, 60 Hz (Model 8695)

Exterior Dimensions

40.8" W × 37.0" D × 77.9" H

Interior Dimensions

30.6" W × 25.3" D × 51.5" H

Weight

Approximately 900 lbs.

Operating Costs & Energy Considerations

The Forma 8695 utilizes Thermo's proven cascade refrigeration platform to provide dependable ultra-low temperature performance for demanding laboratory applications. The double-door configuration helps reduce cold air loss during routine sample retrieval, which can improve recovery times and reduce unnecessary compressor operation. Routine condenser cleaning, adequate ventilation, and preventative maintenance will help maximize refrigeration performance and extend equipment life.

Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.

Refurbishment & Testing Process

Every Thermo Forma 8695 received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection and extended performance evaluation before shipment. Our technicians verify pull-down performance, temperature stability, refrigeration operation, controller functionality, alarm systems, battery backup, door seals, insulated interior doors, shelving, and overall cabinet condition before thoroughly cleaning the freezer for delivery.

Laboratories building complete cold storage programs frequently purchase laboratory refrigerators, laboratory freezers, cryogenic storage systems, biosafety cabinets, and centrifuges from American Instrument Exchange.

Shipping & Installation Considerations

The Thermo Forma 8695 ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before delivery, laboratories should verify doorway clearances, available floor space, electrical service, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Organizing cryoboxes by compartment before installation can improve inventory management while taking full advantage of the freezer's double-door design and reducing routine door-open time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the advantage of the Thermo Forma 8695's double-door design?

The two exterior doors allow researchers to access one half of the freezer while leaving the opposite compartment closed, reducing cold air loss and helping maintain more stable storage temperatures during routine sample retrieval.

How many cryoboxes can the Forma 8695 hold?

The Forma 8695 accommodates approximately 400 standard 2-inch cryoboxes, making it an excellent choice for laboratories managing large biological collections.

Who is the Forma 8695 best suited for?

The freezer is ideal for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, biobanks, and research laboratories where multiple users routinely access stored samples throughout the day.

How is the freezer tested before shipment?

Every refurbished Thermo Forma 8695 is inspected, cleaned, and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians to verify refrigeration performance, pull-down capability, temperature stability, controller operation, alarms, battery backup, and overall system reliability before shipment.

Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Freezers

Cold Storage Reliability from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every used and refurbished laboratory freezer we offer undergoes a comprehensive multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, temperature stability, and long-term reliability. Our rigorous testing procedures are designed to meet the demanding standards of biomedical, pharmaceutical, research, and clinical environments—so you can trust your freezer to protect your valuable samples and materials.

Why Testing Refurbished Laboratory Freezers Is Critical

Before any laboratory freezer is placed back into service, it must be carefully tested for:

Consistent temperature control and uniformity across internal zones
Compressor functionality and refrigeration system performance
Seal integrity and insulation efficiency to prevent temperature loss
Electrical safety and alarm system operation

Thorough testing minimizes the risk of temperature excursions, equipment failure, and product loss—especially for temperature-sensitive items like reagents, biological samples, and vaccines.

Our structured testing protocol ensures that all used and refurbished laboratory freezers meet or exceed manufacturer specifications and industry expectations.

Key Testing Procedures for Laboratory Freezers

1. Visual and Structural Inspection

Examine the exterior for dents, corrosion, or physical damage
Check door gaskets, hinges, and latches for wear and functionality
Inspect power cords, control panels, and internal compartments

2. Functional Startup and System Check

Power on the unit to verify startup sequence, control panel functionality, and display readability
Test programmable settings, alarms, and door-open sensors
Ensure proper door closure and sealing performance

3. Temperature Performance and Stability Testing

Test temperature sensors using certified thermometers or probes
Monitor chamber temperature at multiple points over extended run periods
Verify temperature uniformity and accuracy across common lab setpoints (e.g., -20°C, -30°C)

4. Compressor and Refrigeration System Evaluation

Test compressor startup, cycling behavior, and operating noise
Check condenser coils, evaporators, and fans for performance and cleanliness
Inspect for refrigerant leaks or pressure issues that may affect efficiency

5. Electrical Safety and Compliance Verification

Confirm proper grounding and insulation of all electrical components
Conduct safety testing to meet laboratory equipment electrical standards
Verify functionality of alarms for power loss, temperature excursions, and system faults

6. Final Quality Assurance and Runtime Validation

Conduct multi-day test cycle to confirm stable performance under continuous use
Record temperature data, alarm responses, and compressor cycling metrics
Complete final inspection and prepare detailed service documentation

Reliable Cold Storage, Backed by Testing Excellence

Each refurbished laboratory freezer from American Instrument Exchange is tested and certified for cold storage accuracy, safety, and performance. Whether upright, undercounter, flammable-material rated, or specialty-purpose, our lab freezers are restored to meet real-world research and clinical demands.

Trust American Instrument Exchange for dependable, tested, and warrantied laboratory refrigeration—ready to support your lab from day one.

Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Freezers
Certified Cold Storage Performance from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory freezer we offer is subjected to a comprehensive repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a general-purpose lab freezer, flammable-material grade unit, or undercounter model, our goal is to restore each system to peak performance—ensuring consistent temperature control and reliable operation.

Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Freezer from American Instrument Exchange?

• Fully tested for cold storage accuracy and operational safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new refrigeration equipment
• Sustainably refurbished to reduce environmental impact
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience

Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol

Every laboratory freezer from American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, multi-stage process to ensure top-tier performance and reliability:

1. Initial Intake & Inspection

• Visual inspection for dents, corrosion, or structural damage
• Mechanical check of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and internal components
• Documentation of missing parts or areas requiring repair or replacement

2. Cleaning and Decontamination

• Internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive cleaners
• Decontamination/cleaning of all surfaces to remove biological or chemical residues
• Thorough cleaning of shelving, drawers, and removable interior parts

3. Mechanical and Electrical Repairs

• Replacement or repair of worn mechanical parts (door latches, seals, hinges, etc.)
• Inspection and restoration of control interfaces, thermostats, sensors, and displays
• Evaluation of wiring, relays, fuses, and power supply components for safety and integrity

4. Refrigeration System and Compressor Evaluation

• Testing of compressor function, condenser coils, and evaporators
• Inspection for refrigerant leaks and pressure performance (if applicable)
• Verification of proper airflow, fan operation, and defrost cycles

5. Temperature Calibration and Performance Testing

• Testing of temperature sensors and control boards
• Verification of temperature stability and uniformity throughout the chamber
• Testing of multiple setpoints (e.g., -20°C to -30°C) over extended operating periods

6. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Inspection of grounding and electrical insulation per lab safety standards
• Testing of alarm systems (if applicable) for temperature excursions or power failure

7. Final Quality Control and Documentation

• Multi-day operational test
• Final cleaning, inspection, and performance validation
• Detailed service report with temperature logs and repair notes

Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of industry experience, American Instrument Exchange is a leading provider of high-quality refurbished laboratory equipment. Our proven laboratory refrigerator refurbishment protocol ensures consistent, accurate cold storage—so you can safeguard your samples with confidence.

Warranty Information

All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,

Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”

Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.

Return & Cancellation Policy

American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.

Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.

Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.

Ongoing and Extended Support Options

American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.

For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.

For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.

How do you test and recondition the equipment?

Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.

How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?

We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.

Return and order cancellation policy

American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.

Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?

Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.

How does your price matching policy work?

We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?

Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.

1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.

Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?

Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.